Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development Section 5-303

      (a)      The General Assembly finds that:

            (1)      Small businesses are a major source of new jobs and innovations in the State;

            (2)      The State's research capacity could spur innovation in new and existing businesses to create and maintain jobs in the State; and

            (3)      An inadequate supply of seed and venture capital has limited the commercialization of research and development activity in the State.

      (b)      The General Assembly intends that the Maryland Venture Capital Trust shall:

            (1)      Help fill the critical gap in the State's economy caused by the inadequate supply of seed and venture capital funds; and

            (2)      Stimulate the commercialization of research and development to create and sustain businesses throughout the State in all regions of the State.